Let’s examine a trade proposal that would allow the Bengals to cut their losses with Stewart and transfer him to the Lions as tensions rise.
Shemar Stewart’s trade pitch for the Lions
The Lions acquire Shemar Stewart.
The Bengals receive a first-round pick in 2026.
In the 2025 NFL Draft, Stewart was chosen by the Bengals with the 17th overall choice. Essentially, the pick appeared to be quite typical. Stewart, a highly regarded defensive lineman from Texas A&M, demonstrated his ability to disrupt the NFL’s three-down interior. It made sense for Cincinnati to strengthen their defensive line in case Trey Hendrickson left, as they are currently dealing with some contract turmoil around the standout pass rusher.
The only issue is that the Bengals front staff experienced additional contract controversy as a result of Stewart’s pick. These negotiations have been severely hampered by Cincy’s attempt to smuggle in a language that would nullify the guarantees in Stewart’s rookie contract if he got into problems off the field. Up until now, Stewart has refused to train for his new team. He even left mandatory minicamp one day early without making any progress on his contract.
Cincinnati is currently in a difficult situation. They can’t completely overlook Stewart’s absence, but extending Hendrickson is the more urgent issue. The Bengals must choose between paying the former Aggies star and moving on from him because he has threatened to stay out for the entire season and possibly even reenter the draft the following year. The Lions would be a logical destination if they were to trade him.
Detroit’s defensive line isn’t particularly strong, but they will be overjoyed to have Aidan Hutchinson return in 2025. Marcus Davenport, the defensive end across the line from Hutchinson, is a major unknown, but Alim McNeil and D.J. Reader are reliable, seasoned defensive tackles. If Stewart hits the trade block, he may be a great target because he can line up anywhere along the defensive line and could need a little more skill on the d-line.
Would This Shemar Stewart Trade Interest the Bengals and Lions?
In an ideal world, Stewart would sign his contract and play for the Bengals. However, it is clearly not taking place, which has put the front office in a difficult position. Since they just spent a first-round selection on Stewart, they would probably be searching for one if they were to move him. This pick would be in the back of the first round, assuming Detroit does well in 2025, but Cincinnati would probably take it.
However, the Lions have the chance to sign a top player who wasn’t available when they were under contract this season.
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